Philadelphia Early Bail Report 2024

As a result of a project developed by two Temple Law Students in collaboration with PMC, from August through December 2023, law students from Temple Law observed more than 50 Early Bail Review (“EBR”) hearings in Philadelphia Municipal Court.

This report goes into detail about the criminal justice process and early bail review in Philadelphia, Temple Law’s EBR program, and observations from participants.

The goal of the report is to showcase the pressing need for a more standardized approach to bail adjustment and judicial conduct, an improvement to the technical gaps that adversely affect accused individuals, and clear recommendations for EBR hearings to ensure that adequate attention and time are given to each hearing, regardless of the judge presiding each day.